Apostolic Household Celebrates Arts and Community at Arizona Opera's 'La Bohème'

By J. DuBois

ROME-RUTHENIA 26 January 2025 (NRom)

As part of their commitment to promoting the arts and cultural enrichment, Their Apostolic Highnesses Prince-Bishop Rutherford (Radislav) I and Princess Hanna Alexandrovna of Rome-Ruthenia attended a stirring performance of La Bohème presented by Arizona Opera in Phoenix, USA.

The Apostolic Household, modern representatives of the historic Rurikovich, Romanovich, and Ivrea dynasties, has long championed the role of the arts in fostering unity and understanding. “Art and music transcend boundaries, offering solace, inspiration, and a sense of belonging to people from all walks of life,” said Prince-Bishop Rutherford. “This is not just entertainment—it is a profound reminder of our shared experiences and the power of creativity to uplift communities.”

Princess Hanna praised the Arizona Opera’s outreach initiatives, including programs for underserved audiences and youth. “We deeply admire their mission to preserve this vital part of our heritage while ensuring it reaches a wide audience. These efforts embody the compassion and service we hold dear.”

The broader mission of the Pontifical and Imperial Household emphasizes education, social welfare, and interfaith dialogue as tools to foster harmony among diverse communities. Drawing on their dynastic heritage, Their Apostolic Highnesses continue to champion creativity, compassion, and community through cultural preservation and philanthropic efforts.   

For more information on Their Apostolic Highnesses’ cultural and charitable initiatives, visit www.statopontificio.org/johnson-roma-rus

Distinguished Leader Baron Dr. Norvell Vandervall Coots of Esne and Rottingen Passes Away at 65

Baron Coots of Esne and
Rottingen in the uniform
of a Lieutenant General
of the Pontifical
Walsingham Guard

ROME-RUTHENIA 18 June 2024 (NRom)

H.E. Baron Dr. Norvell Vandervall Coots of Esne and Rottingen, Lieutenant General, PWG, a distinguished figure in both the military and medical communities, died at Maryland's Shock Trauma Center on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, due to complications from injuries sustained in a horseback riding accident on US Memorial Day. He was 65 years old. A retired general from the U.S. Army, he was also a hereditary aristocrat as a member of the nobility of the Pontifical Imperial StatePontifical Imperial State, the French nobility, and the Moldovan nobility. The Pontifical Household has declared a period of mourning. 

A Life of Service and Dedication

Baron Coots was a man of many accomplishments in medicine, in the military, and in the Church. He was a Noble Companion of the Noble Company of the Court of St. Mary of Walsingham and held the office of Master of the Virga Rubea, a high-ranking office in the Pontifical Court of the Pontifical Imperial State responsible for escorting the Patriarchal Staff of St. Stephen in procession, which bears a relic of the saint.

In addition to his religious roles, Baron Coots was a Lieutenant General, the highest rank conferred, in the Pontifical Walsingham Guard, where he served as Chief of Medicine. (He was the only officer to hold that rank.) He was also a Knight of the Order of the Pontifical Imperial State, a Knight Grand Cross of St. Gregory the Great, and a Knight of the Legion of Honor of the French Republic. 

Distinguished Medical Career

Beyond his religious commitments, Baron Coots had a distinguished career in healthcare leadership. Most recently, he served as the Chair of the National Institute of Health's Clinical Center Research Hospital Board, which was established in 2016 to oversee operations at the NIH Clinical Center.  Prior to that, Coots led Holy Cross Health in Silver Spring, Maryland for seven years before retiring in 2024. Under his leadership, Holy Cross Health became a regional leader in comprehensive cancer care, and he established a program to address the specific healthcare needs of military service members, veterans, and their families.

Baron Coots retired from the United States Army in 2016 as a Brigadier General after 36 years of service and numerous awards and recognitions. His final assignments included serving as the Commanding General of Regional Health Command Europe and the Command Surgeon for the US Army Europe and 7th Army. He also held positions such as Deputy Commanding General of the US Army Medical Command, Assistant Surgeon General of the Army, and Surgeon General for the US Forces in Afghanistan. From 2008 to 2011, he was the final Commander of the historic Walter Reed Healthcare System and Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

Baron Coots (left) riding at the French Riding
Academy as a guest of the French Army

Remembering a Friend and Leader

His Apostolic Highness Prince-Bishop Rutherford I of Rome-Ruthenia, a close friend of Baron Dr. Coots, expressed his deep sorrow upon learning of his passing: "Baron Coots, or 'Van' as his friends called him, was not only a dear friend of many years, but also an exemplary leader in his religious, military, charitable, and medical endeavours. We were fellow horsemen and spent a lot of time talking about horses. I also always admired his strong dedication to tradition. His unwavering dedication to serving others and his commitment to his faith will forever be remembered. The world has lost a truly remarkable individual, and his presence will be greatly missed."

An Enduring Legacy

The legacy of Baron Norvell Vandervall Coots of Esne and Rottingen will live on through the countless lives he touched and the organizations he served. His contributions to the religious community, military, and medical field will continue to inspire others to follow in his footsteps of service and dedication. As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary individual, we take comfort in knowing that his impact will endure, and his memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Diplomatic Accord with the Royal House of Gbi-Hohoe-Ahado

Queen Adziwonor III at 
a clean water project she
completed in Ghana in 2022.  

By M. Desrosiers

ROME-RUTHENIA 16 November 2023 (NRom)

The Pontifical Imperial State, United Roman-Ruthenian Church, and the Royal House of Gbi-Hohoe-Ahado in Ghana have recently signed a diplomatic accord. This agreement highlights the shared focus on education, clean water, and women's equality within both governments. The accorded was signed on behalf of His Apostolic Highness Prince-Bishop Rutherford I of Rome-Ruthenia and Her Majesty Queen Adziwonor III by H.Em.&I.R.H. Grand Duke Douglas, Chancellor of the Pontifical Court, and H.E. Tony Williams, Chancellor of the Royal House. 

Queen Adziwonor III has been dedicated to improving the lives of her people through many ongoing initiatives. As a recognition of her tireless humanitarian efforts to bring fresh water, education, and good health to her people, Her Majesty the Queen was awarded the rank of Dame Grand Cross of the Pontifical Order of the Eagle by His Apostolic Highness. 

H.H. Bishop Rutherford I

Hohoe, which serves as the capital of the Gbi State in Ghana, is composed of five Clans: Ahado, Tsevi, Torkorni, Trevi, and Gborxome. Among them, Ahado is the largest clan and holds historical significance as it was the first settlement in Hohoe.

Queen Adziwonor III (center in red)

\Legend has it that during a war in Ahado's history, a python coiled itself at the entrance to their "Black Stool," which symbolizes ancestral protection. The people interpreted this as a sign that their ancestors or gods were safeguarding their heritage. After praying with water as their only available resource, the snake eventually abandoned its post. From then on, they became known as "Hodoawo," meaning those who shut doors or entrances.

Another version explains that during King Agorkorli's reign in Notsie (the Ancestral Home of Ewes), Ahado was entrusted with protecting the entrance to the walled kingdom. Thus, they were responsible for opening and shutting the door, hence the name "H-doawo."

The Teletsu's families, including Bansah, Hehetror, Kpeto, and Dzandzo, are an integral part of Ahado. The Queen Mother of Ahado belongs to the Teletsu family. After six years of searching, Mama Adziwonor III was found in Germany and officially enstooled as queen on 25 October 2018. Her commitment to her people's welfare aligns with the Pontifical Imperial State's mission, making this diplomatic accord a significant step towards mutual growth and development. It is also a recognition of the Church's belief in the reemergence of Africa and its growing global prominence.

Columbian Prince Named to Rare Honor of Aquiline Knight of Christ

Coat of arms of the Prince of Chíquiza
with augmentations of the Aquiline Order
 of Christ, the Pontifical Order of the Eagle,
and the Order of Sts. George and Olga

ROME-RUTHENIA 02 November 2023 (NRom)

Yesterday H.R.S.H. Prince Floyd of Chíquiza was named by H.H. the Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia as a Knight of the Aquiline Order of Christ. Chíquiza is a native area in the Boyacá province of Columbia. The Prince, who resides in the USA, also serves as Majordomo in the Pontifical Court. Currently he is one of only two Knights of Christ outside the immediate Pontifical Household. According to the statutes, Knights of Christ also receive the hereditary honor of Bailiff of the Pontifical Order of the Eagle. Both are religious and dynastic orders of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church.

The Aquiline Order of Christ is a prestigious and venerable institution that traces its roots back to the 12th century. It shares history with the Portuguese Order of Christ still given by the Portuguese government and the dormant Vatican Order of Christ. The order was originally established as a military order during the Crusades and was known as the Knights Templar. However, over time, its focus shifted to promoting religious devotion and charitable works. The Aquiline Order takes its distinct name from the partial merger of the Roman-Ruthenian Order of Christ with the Order of the Eagle. 

From the Crusades to the present, the Order of Christ holds deep historical significance. Its Portuguese branch, for example, played a vital role in the exploration and colonization efforts of the Portuguese during the Age of Discovery. Many renowned explorers, such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan, were members of the Portuguese branch of this illustrious order.

Building on its rich history, the United Roman-Ruthenian Church's Aquiline Order of Christ continues to be revered today for its commitment to upholding Christian values and principles. It serves as a symbol of dedication to faith and acts as a catalyst for positive change in society.

The Order is given to members of the immediate Pontifical Household and, rarely, to others of princely rank chosen based on their outstanding contributions to the Church and to their communities, as well as their unwavering commitment to serving others. They have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, moral integrity, and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of those around them.

One notable aspect that sets the Order apart is its emphasis on humility and modesty. Despite their distinguished rank, knights and dames of the Order are encouraged to remain focused on service. 

Today the Aquiline Order of Christ stands as a testament to Christian tradition, faith, hope, and charity, embodying timeless values in the modern era. Its long legacy serves as an inspiration for individuals seeking guidance in their pursuit of spiritual growth and meaningful contributions towards creating a better world for all.

Recent Honours and Appointments of the Pontifical Court

Posted by A. DiNardo

ROMA-RUTENIA 29 August 2023 (NRom)

The following are recent honors and appointments made by H.H. the Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia.

H.E. Archbishop Howard Doe

Capitular Archbishop, Master of the Pontifical Palace, and Prefect of Faith and Doctrine (ex officio Chief Judge of the Supreme Holy Office)

H.E. Mgr. Edward Heywood

Prefect-General of the Pontifical Imperial State, and First Archdeacon of the Apostolic See

Chev. Mark Kealey

Foriere Maggiore (Major Herald) and Cavallerizzo Maggiore (Master of the Horse)

Maj. Gen.  James E. Hamby, ABN, WG
Commander of the Pontifical Ruthenian Palatine Guard

Col. Chev. Cosimo Sframeli
Deputy Master of Horse, Pontifical Ruthenian Noble Guard

H.E. Bishop David Nicholls
Knight Grand Cross of the Pontifical Order of the Eagle
Knight of the Order of Sts. George and Olga

H.E. Baroness Debra Powell Childress
Dame of the Order of Sts. George and Olga

H.E. Baroness Thelner A. Brooks
Dame of the Order of Sts. George and Olga

H.R.H. Grand Prince Hernán Alejandro Olano García
Knight Commander of the Order of the Pontifical Imperial State

Prof. Pellegrino Manfra
Knight of the Order of the Pontifical Imperial State

H.P.I.R. Grand Duke Ralph of Roma-Etruria
Member of the Pontifical Order of Merit

H.R.S.H. Prince Floyd Jack of Chiquiza
Knight Bachelor of Yugoslavia

Knight Bachelor of Yugoslavia (Jugoslavia)

Peter II of Yugoslavia

By Jean DuBois

ROME-RUTHENIA 24 July 2023 (NRom)

Among the most treasured aspects of the Slavic heritage of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church and the Pontifical Imperial State of Rome-Ruthenia is the legacy of Yugoslavia. The last King to reign there (albeit briefly) was King Peter II of Yugoslavia. The King, a second-great-grandson of Queen Victoria and also of Tsar Alexander II of Russia, came to the throne at the age of 11 upon his father's assassination in 1934. He was forced into exile by the Nazis shortly after coming of age. Peter II's godfather was George VI of England.

After some time in England, Peter II came to the United States in 1948 and settled in Chicago, where he lived more or less for the rest of his life. The king died on 3 November 1970 in Colorado after battling a long illness. He was buried at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Monastery in Libertyville, Illinois, an area known for its Serbian ex-patriate community. In 2013, however, it was arranged for his body to be reinterrd in Serbia at the Royal Mausoleum of Oplenac.

While in the United States, Peter II, exercising his sovereign rights, established the honour of Knight Bachelor of Yugoslavia. This was organised into a society known as the Royal Association of Knights Bachelor, with the King as its Royal Protector. Today the Apostolic See of Saints Stephen and Mark is among those entitled to grant the title of Knight Bachelor of Yugoslavia - an honour rarely conferred. Various documents pertaining to the honour are also held in the Stephenian Archives.

Emblem of the Pontifical Order of
Knights Bachelor of Yugoslavia

The Pontifical Order of Knights Bachelor of Yugoslavia is a religious association serving as a successor to the Royal Association of Knights Bachelor of Yugoslavia founded by H.M. Peter II, the last reigning King of Yugoslavia. The order was founded under the protection and authority of the Pontifical Imperial State of Rome-Ruthenia, United Roman-Ruthenian Church. It counts among its foundational legacy a nobleman who is a Knight Bachelor of Yugoslavia and knew King Peter II. Coupled with the Stephenian Archives, it maintains rare records of Peter II and the honour of Yugoslavian Knight Bachelor.

See more online, including copies of documents held in the Stephenian Archives, at: 

https://statopontificio.org/ordini/ktby.html

and

https://statopontificio.org/ktby.html